A solution of $(+)-2$ - chloro $-2$ - phenylethane in toluene racemises slowly in the presence of small…
A solution of $(+)-2$ - chloro $-2$ - phenylethane in toluene racemises slowly in the presence of small amounts of $\mathrm{SbCl}_{5}$ due to the formation of
Carbanion
Carbene
Free radical
Carbocation
Solution
$\mathrm{SbCl}_{5}$ pulls $\mathrm{Cl}^{-}$ to form $\mathrm{SbCl}_{6}^{-}$ leaving behind planar $\mathrm{C}_{6} \mathrm{H}_{5}-\mathrm{CH}^{+}-\mathrm{CH}_{3}$ carbonium ion. It
can be attacked from either side leading to racemic mixture.
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